May Bank Holidays: Long Weekend Breaks

May is special for us Brits for two simple reasons: it’s jam packed full of bank holidays (well, compared to most of the other months) and it’s (sometimes) sunny. Often the hardest part of making the most of your bonus days off is deciding exactly what to do with them. It’s important that these precious days don’t get wasted. So here’s some inspiration to help you spend them wisely!

http://www.westusklighthouse.co.uk/

Light up Your Life

We know what you’re thinking: “I’ve always wanted to stay in a lighthouse.” Well, fear not – it’s entirely possible. Book a stay at West Usk Lighthouse, Newport. This positively charming venue is perfect for those who prefer a taste of originality when it comes to holidaying. To say that this accommodation is unique would be an understatement. Not only is it an 1821, Grade II listed building, but its location is as idyllic as its amenities.

First, ascend the spiral staircase, admiring the nautical decor on route. Then settle into your room. Whether you want to embrace luxury in a four poster or feel at one with the ocean in a water bed, it’s possible here. With a sun deck overlooking the Bristol Channel, you can have your breakfast a stone’s throw away from the shore. Not only this, but there is also a clay barbecue and a bubbly hot tub. If this location isn’t convenient, there are a whole host of UK lighthouses available to rent on Airbnb. There are even a few windmills too!

https://www.broads.co.uk/

Boat Along the Broads

Sail the bank holiday away by hiring a boat on the Norfolk Broads. Manning these vessels requires no previous experience, so you can captain your very own ship without taking any official lessons. With cosy, caravan-esque cabins, you can navigate the waterways by day and snuggle up in your bunk by night. Plus, you’ll have everything you need to cook a meal below deck, and the prospect of alfresco dining above—so the perfect cocktail-accompanied evening is at your fingertips.

The broads have lots to offer, and with your floating home you can find the best of them with ease. So why not witness life from a different perspective and book a boat trip today? Some boats have WiFi, although fair warning—most of these boats aren’t suitable for high wattage devices like hair straighteners. This may well be a deciding factor for some!

http://domegarden.co.uk/

Gloucester Glamping

By now, most people have heard of glamping. But, not everyone has heard of dome glamping. On the outskirts of Gloucester there is a place aptly named, ‘The Dome Garden.’ For a long time gardens have been filled with gnomes, but only recently has the dome come along. It’s worth escaping to the wilderness just to see these unconventional structures. So much more than a tent, these geodesic pods can sleep an entire family or group of friends. Sleep under the night’s sky in a hammock, and take a dip in the steaming wood-fired bath – talk about rustic. One of the domes even has an elevated bed so you can stargaze to your heart’s content.

Head to the City

For a city break with a difference, try York. The perfect combination of northern English charm and sophisticated culture, it’s a win-win destination. If you’re looking for luxury, then you can experience it at Yorkshire’s only 5 star hotel, The Grand. Enjoy afternoon tea and, if the weather holds out, get lost in York Maze. If you’re intent on spoiling yourself then head to York’s Fudge Kitchen and then treat yourself to a spa day. If you’re happy to head on a mini-road trip, why not spend your extra bank holiday night in the oh-so-lovely Lake District?